Welcome to the future

Steven Stamkos is the projected No. 1 pick in the '08 draft.

Ryan Kennedy
2007-11-06 11:43:59

Welcome to The Hot List, our new weekly wrap-up of players we can’t wait to see in NHL uniforms.

Culled from major junior, NCAA, Europe and any other league with a phenom in the making, this is an exhibition, not a competition. So if your favorite young star drops off the list, it’s not because we hate him, we’re just trying to spread the love.

Each Tuesday will feature a mini-profile on one player; the aim being to get you familiar with the stars of tomorrow. We’ll also make sure to include at least one real sleeper pick every week – an underclassman who hasn’t even hit junior or NCAA yet, just so we can say we told you first.

The rules of the list are simple: as soon as a player steps on NHL ice, they’ve graduated and will no longer be featured.

5. Tuukka Rask, G – Providence Bruins (AHL): Not that the Bruins need goaltending now, but top prospect Rask is settling into the pro game nicely with a 2.00 goals-against average and a record of 6-1-0.
6. Patrik Berglund, C – Vasteras (Swe Division II): Absolutely killed at St. Louis’ rookie camp, now the youngster is torching his homeland for 12 points (eight goals) in 11 games.